Tasmania can be either cold or hellishly hot in summer, depending on where you go and the changeable weather. It can also be plagued by bushfires, so check the news and emergency services before attempting to head into the heavily wooded Huon Valley.
Huon ValleyOne of the great things about riding in Tasmania is that you can ride by the seashore and up into the mountains all in a few hours as it is so small. This short ride takes us south out of Hobart on the narrow and winding Channel Highway down through Kingston by the sea.
Just about any road in Tasmania is twisty and encased in beautiful scenery. This is no different. On the left is a panorama of islands and sea with a pleasant coastline dotted with anglers. To the right are the hills and forests of pine as you ride through the quaintly named townships of Snug, Flowerpot and Cygnet. Any of these little towns is a great stopping point for a coffee or to sample the local hops or produce.
As you round the cape and head up into Cygnet you will be temped by many an exploratory ride up some of the little tar tracks that run into the hills and they’re all worth a look. There really are no wrong turns through this quiet country region. It’s easy getting around and you can take your eyes off the map or satnav and just explore. Eventually you will end up back on the Channel Highway anyway.
Mt Wellington viewsAs you pass through Huonville and the rich, scenic apple valleys you are now on the Huon Highway, but the traffic can still be sparse. This takes you back into Hobart, but you can add a little detour, turning left on the tight and twisty Huon Rd (not highway) which takes you up to Fern Tree where you indicate left on the tangled climb that is Pinnacle Rd to – you guessed it – Mt Wellington. But be warned. It’s snowed here in December and the wind blasts can freeze your face right off.
It’s only a 150km loop, so conceivably you could do a second lap.